March 15, 2016 by Darlene

TOTR: What’s Hard About Running?

with Erika @ MCM Mama Runs,
Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice
and Patty @ My no-guilt life!

This week’s topic is The hardest part of running is _______.

I was tempted to say EVERYTHING.

I don’t find running easy. I am not a natural athlete.

For me, long runs are hard. Speed workouts are hard. Hills are hard. 5ks are hard. Half Marathons are hard.

this explains it all (after the First Watch HM in March 2013)

You get the picture.

But the hardest part about running is expectations.

I’m not saying that it’s not good to push yourself. It is.

But if we are always expecting to be faster or expecting a PR or expecting an age group award, then we are disappointed when we don’t meet our expectations.

If running is filled with disappointments, then it no longer becomes enjoyable.

This is very hard too. How do you know how high to set the bar?

If I am not sore after a race, did I not push myself hard enough?

If my time was too slow, did I walk too much?

Can I run faster? Have I peaked?

Am I too old to be able to finish that fast?

But if we set NO expectations, then we can enjoy the run more.

No expectations. Just finish without any pain. Happy to have participated with friends and to have supported an important cause.

It will be hard but I hope I can do this more often:

and remember this:

Happy Running! What is the hardest thing about running for you?

March 14, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – I took my daily 15 min walk with a co-worker. (I can now say that since we have walked everyday for ONE week).

on the track

After work, I went for a run on the rail trail. I was so excited that it was light enough to do so…getting sick of my work neighborhood.

must have been running fast – that’s why it is blurry LOL

Tuesday – Just a work day followed by tennis in the evening (followed by dinner out)

Wednesday – Another normal work day. 80 degree temps meant 2 walks and a run in a skirt!!

new pre-run drink – Chocolate Banana Smoothie with protein powder & coconut milk – from Starbucks, where else?

Thursday – Rainy rainy day. I could have run on the treadmill but decided against it. Instead, I got some steps and retail therapy in at the mall. (bought 2 caps & a tank in Burlington Coat Factory.)

Friday – My first before work run in forever. Last one before Sunday’s half. It was a little chilly and windy but it is the best way to start the day. Why don’t I do it more often?

My normal walks at work and then an evening of mah jongg.

Saturday – My rest day!! Errands, housework, cooking… the usual stuff.

Sunday – Celebrate Life Half Marathon. Hilliest race ever.

I walked up ALL the hills so my time wasn’t great but I did it for the cause and the weather was pefect.

23 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week: (6 weeks until Half Marathon #19)

Monday – 3 mile run
Tuesday – rest, tennis
Wednesday – 3 mile run, yoga?
Thursday -rest
Friday – 3 mile run, mah jongg
Saturday – rest, proctor MPREs at work
Sunday – 5 mile race + 4 miles after

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races?

March 11, 2016 by Darlene

Friday Five: Racing

Every Friday, three DC area bloggers Mar at Mar On the Run, Cynthia at You Signed Up For What?! and Courtney from Eat Pray Run, DC to host the Friday Five linkup. Anyone can join with their own Friday Five post (yes, it must be a Friday Five!!) They encourage you to visit other blogs on the linkup, comment, share and engage!

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Since I am racing this weekend and many weekends to come and I don’t cook much or eat healthy, my Friday Five topic is: Five Reasons to Race A Lot.

Here ‘s why I run so many races:

1. Cool Swag

Sometimes, it’s just a shirt but lots of times, it is a bag, water bottle, food samples, key chain, and other running-related goodies.

2. Free Food

I love to eat especially to replenish the calories burned during running.

Sean's Run with Mary

3. Gets you out there during the week.

When it is cold, windy and just plain nasty and I don’t feel like running, if I have a race scheduled for the weekend, I will make myself get out there and run. I know if I don’t run during the week, then my finish time will suffer, I may get injured and/or the race will be unpleasant. It takes a long time to get in shape and such a short time to feel out of shape.

4. Meet new and old running friends.

Many of my running friends, I have met at races. It is so fun to see a familiar face at a race and chat…about running, of course.

5. Replaces Speed Workouts.

I am the first to admit it. I know that I should, but I don’t do speed drills, tempos, intervals, hill repeats, strides, etc. So for me, I guess my workout happens during a race. I’ll do those hills, run sprints and then, if I am scheduled for a long run, I’l continue my miles after the race at a slower pace.

hf10kc

Happy Running! Do you run a lot of races? If so, why?

March 10, 2016 by Darlene

TOLT: The Next One with be the Hardest

Celebrate Life Half Marathon

Yes, it will be hilly.

Take a look:

But that’s not why it will be hard.

I will be running it for a close friend who has been diagnosed with breast cancer…for the third time (2nd in 2 years.) She has recently had a mastectomy and should be fine but it is still scary.

A whole busload of runners from my area are going down for the race. They are all probably racing because they know someone who has had cancer.

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So the race should be fun. But it will also be sad.

Mile 11 will be lined with signs. I did buy one for my friend.

Even my friends Mary Pat and Judy will be on the bus. They are running the relay together.

Mary is the the blonde on the left and Judy is wearing the pink hat

Training

I feel like I just ran a half marathon.

Sarasota Music HM on Feb.7

Wait a minute. I just did 5 weeks ago.

After that, I did all my long runs – 10, 12, 12, 10 miles.

So I must be ready? Right?

Expectations

None. I have not run on any real hills. I do not want to get injured so I will take it easy. I hope to enjoy the race.

Scenic course
Free photos
Post Race Lunch
Race donates 100% of the proceeds to cancer patients in treatment
Friends at the race
Best race swag:

What’s not to enjoy?

The Outfit

Still deciding due to the weather. But hopefully, it won’t rain and will be warm enough:

psyched to wear my Skirt Sports psyched print skirt

Next up?

I have a lot of shorter races lined up for the spring and summer.

But that doesn’t mean that I won’t be signing up for any half marathons.

The Vermont City Marathon Relay on May 29 is a definite…

with AJH and running leg #2 this year

I also signed up for this one at an expo (because it was cheap):

April 24

And there is a blogger meet up in the works…Panama City Half Marathon in December????

Since it is Thursday, I’m linking up today with Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.

Happy Running! What race are you training for? What are you thinking about this Thursday?

March 9, 2016 by Darlene

Wednesday Word: Gracious

Every Wednesday, the Deb from Deb Runs will be providing a word about which to blog. Kind of like a nice little blog prompt. Posts can be fitness or health related, but don’t have to be, so really anyone can play along. Just be sure to link up with InLinkz on Deb’s main post, and share the love by reading and commenting on other’s participant’s posts.

Today’s word is GRACIOUS.

The dictionary defines gracious as; “being pleasantly kind, benevolent and courteous.”

How do we become a “gracious” runner?

Help other runners even it means that you may run slower, re-arrange your running calendar or and run fewer miles than planned.

I volunteered my time twice in the STEM running program. Yes, I had to run much slower. Yes, I had to drive in rush hour traffic to get to the running location. Yes, I had to skip my usual running distance. But it was worth it to see the look on a runner’s face when she completed her FIRST 5k.

had my slowest 5k time but who cares?

I also participated in the GOTR program and plan to again. It is so important to make a difference in a young girl’s life.

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Thank the volunteers at a race. There wouldn’t be a race without them. You wouldn’t have water. You wouldn’t have packet pick up. You would not know where to turn on the course. They are often out there for hours in the rain, cold, heat, etc. in order to make the race that you are running in a successful one.

Be modest about your racing successes.

Be proud, of course but keep it under check when around a slower runner than yourself or one who runs shorter races. Don’t brag!

Be mindful of other runners.

That means if you are walking, let runners go by. Don’t block the way if you are pushing a stroller uphill. If you are running with a dog, make sure that the dog is leashed.

And lastly:

Happy Running! Any other ways that you can be a “gracious” runner?

March 8, 2016 by Darlene

TOTR: The Best Thing(s) About Running …

with Erika @ MCM Mama Runs,
Marcia @ Marcia’s Healthy Slice
and Patty @ My no-guilt life!

This week’s topic is The Best Thing About Running is…

I certainly could not just limit it to ONE thing!!

So in no particular order, here are the BEST things about running for me:

New friends I have made

deenkastor

Guilt-free carb-loading (before & after a run or race)

Best way to end a bad day (or start off a tough day)

Excuse to shop – buy new running clothes, shoes, gear, etc.

shoe

Setting your own goals (run your “own” race)

How you feel when crossing the finish line in a race

stock5

Feeling healthy, active & alive

mar

Sense of pride & accomplishment (I’m 62 and running half marathons!!)

1st

Being alone and getting lost in one’s own thoughts

The bling 🙂

Happy Running! What do you like BEST about running?

March 7, 2016 by Darlene

Monday Running Update

Last Week:

Monday – I actually took a 15 min walk with a co-worker during the day.

on the track since it was warmer there

After work, I took a run in the park. My legs were still tired from Saturday but the weather was nice so… I just dragged myself through it.

still light enough to run in the park

Tuesday – Just a work day followed by tennis in the evening (and wine & pizza, of course)

another 15 min. walk on the track

Wednesday – It appears that winter is back. The cold accompanied by 40 mph wind gusts. No walking outside at work besides back and forth between buildings. This was not a fun after work run but I survived. Afterward, I had dinner with two co-workers and that was fun.

Thursday – Our 15 min walk in the morning has become a routine (2 days in a row) at work. Otherwise it was just work and hair appointment after work.

Friday – Another normal work day (morning 15 min walk & afternoon walk to Starbucks). A quick run after work followed by an evening of mah jongg.

It was very cold but wearing white shoes & flowered capris made me think of spring

Saturday – My rest day!! Errands, housework, cooking…fun, fun, NOT!

Then I went to an expo. Signed up for 2 5ks and 1 half. Saved $22, got 3 shirts and met a running friend. Now that was fun.

Sunday – My last long run before the big one. I met Judy & Barbara on the bike path but actually only ran with Barbara (when she wasn’t too fast for me.)

Afterwards, the three of us went out for High Tea (tea sandwiches, scone & pastries).

The day ended with a Downton Abbey viewing Party.

19 miles done with 4 runs and 3 rest days.

This Week: (1 week until Half Marathon #18 – Taper Time )

Monday – 3 mile run
Tuesday – rest, tennis
Wednesday – 3 mile run, yoga?
Thursday – 3 mile run
Friday – rest, mah jongg
Saturday – rest
Sunday – Celebrate Life Half Marathon

Once again, I am linking up for the Weekly Wrap hosted by Holly @ HoHoRuns and Tricia @ MissSippiPiddlin. See rules here.

Happy Running! How is your running going? Any races? How are you coping with winter weather?

March 6, 2016 by Darlene

Sunday Teas

Today was a day of “tea” with some running, eating, hot tubbing and TV viewing thrown in.

Morning

The day started with some Dirty Chai.

As I am trying to add caffeine back into my life, I am transitioning from herbal tea to chai then to coffee. So I tried Dirty Chai which is chai plus espresso. It was ok. I am still looking forward to my morning lattes.

Afternoon

Today was also my last long run before next Sunday’s half marathon.

I invited both Judy and Barbara to accompany me. I planned to run 10 miles. Although Judy runs at a slower pace, I don’t mind doing part of my long runs with her.

Barbara runs much faster (and faster than me) but she isn’t training for anything so I wasn’t sure how far she would run with me. But she decided that she would try to do all 10 miles.

What a perfect day for running – blue skies, sunshine, a little wind and cool but not too cold.

Barbara & I wound up running in each direction so we could loop back to our cars for fuel and water.

Unfortunately, we only met up with Judy for a minute. It was too difficult to coordinate and Judy was carrying her fuel and water so she just ran out and back by herself.

Barbara and I were fine together for about 5 miles but at that point, I needed to slow down so she went ahead.

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For the next 5 miles, we ran together and then she ran ahead. And when Barbara tired because she isn’t used this many miles, I ran ahead.

This run was way better than last week’s. I am glad to be going into a half marathon after a decent long run. I am grateful that Barbara stuck with me.

Not long after, Judy was done with her 9 miles and the three of us headed out for a post race treat.

High tea!! We got a pot of tea, 3 tea sandwiches, a scone and 3 desserts! YUM!

Great idea, Judy! What a fun way to end a run. Hope to do that again…

As soon as I got home, I jumped in the hot tub to soothe my weary bones. AAAHHH!

Evening

I don’t know if you are a Downton Abbey fan like I am. But I love that show and am so sad to have end it tonight.

I was invited to a viewing party at a co-worker’s house.

Guess what I am bringing?

Happy Running! How was your weekend? Did you run or race? Did you watch Downton Abbey?

March 5, 2016 by Darlene

Ultimate Coffee Date – March

Since today is the first Saturday in March, I am joining up with Coco, Deborah, and Lynda for their ultimate coffee date.

Over coffee or tea…

I’d tell you that my diet is way off this week.

We’ve had 4 software demos at work this week. To entice faculty to come, we give them lunch. Only a few come and there is so much food left. I hate to see food go to waste…soup, sandwiches, salad. That’s not so bad.

But chips and cookies!!!

Oh no! I overindulged!

Over coffee or tea…

I’d tell you that these star offers for Starbucks are killing me.

This week when you order with the mobile app, you get TWO stars. After 12 stars, you get a free order.

I can’t stop myself.

Have you tried the Butterscotch latte yet?

Over coffee or tea…

I’d tell you that I am very excited. After many years of running with pain, I finally found MY SHOE!! Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10s!!

I admit. I have bunions. Not big ones but the smaller one hurts…at the beginning, middle and/or end of every run…until now.

I have running shoes that are bearable (Mizunos) so I do wear them because I want to save my PERFECT shoes.

Here’s what they say about Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10s:

…. provides a dreamy combination of soft yet responsive cushioning with lightweight Nike Zoom Air and new, ultra-plush Lunarlon foam.

… in the heel and forefoot delivers lightweight, responsive cushioning at heel-strike and toe-off, helping you reach high speeds, faster.

The lightweight Lunarlon foam midsole softens every stride. It’s firmer in the rearfoot and softer in the forefoot to create a smooth transition.

The Flymesh upper provides smooth, breathable comfort with support where you need it most.

Here’s what I say:

Wide soft toe box = NO PAIN = ALL GAIN!!!

I may not be any faster but my feet are happier.

I bought these in Sept. and wore for my Dec 6 half.

I bought these in Jan. and wore them for my Feb 7 half.

I recently ordered these and will wear for a Spring half.

I just ordered these and am saving them for summer.

And I only paid full price for the first pair. Now when the next model comes out and it is different, I will not be upset.

Does anyone else buy extra pairs when they find a shoe that they love?

Over coffee or tea…

I’d tell you than I’m almost back to coffee. I’ve been drinking decaf lattes but in the morning, I’ve switched from herbal tea to chai. It has caffeine.

I wish mine looked this good…

So I’m on my way baaack.

And I’m not sleeping any worse.

Over coffee or tea…

I’d tell you that my last long run before my next half marathon is tomorrow.

Yay!!

And I will have my 2 running buddies helping me!

And even better news, we’re going out afterwards for lunch/tea/desserts!!

at Tailored Tea

That should make the miles go faster.

Happy Running! What can you share with me today?

March 4, 2016 by Darlene

Friday Five: The Long Run

Since tomorrow I am finishing up my training for my next half marathon, my “fitness” topic for this Friday is appropriately Five Ways to Survive the Long Run.

Here are the things that have gotten me through the last few weekends:

Find a Scenic Route

It’s so much more enjoyable if you run some place with great views. I personally wished I lived along the ocean but I don’t. So I either run along the river or some place with trees or bridges.

on the Delmar Rail Trail

2. Plan Ahead.

You need to decide when based on your schedule and more importantly the weather forecast, you are going to do your long run. Then the night before, I don’t plan to go out drinking with friends, stay up too late or skip dinner.

This was not the night before a long run.

3. Do it with a Friend.

The miles and time also go faster when you run with someone else, even if it is just for a few miles. My friend, Judy, is often on a different training schedule. So I may start my run first and then meet her for the last few miles or vice versa.

Dec - running with a new friend

4. Run for Distance not Time.

When I am running longer distances, I try to focus on how far I am running and not how fast. I find that when I focus on time, it makes the run seem longer than it really is. Plus, I am checking my watch or phone instead of enjoying the run.

Winter_4-145

5. Reward yourself when you’re done.

After the accomplishment of a long run, I like to treat myself. In fact, it is a motivator and I look forward to it the whole time that I am out there. In the warmer temps, it is often ice cream. In the winter, a Starbucks mocha latte.

ice_cream_cone_from_stewarts